Understanding Autoimmune Diseases Using Mass Spectrometry.

Glycans are sugar-based molecules which play an important role in biological processes ranging from cell-cell communication to energy metabolism. The complex interplay between these glycans and cell surface glycan-binding proteins (GBPs) serves a crucial role in immune response modulation. Disruption of these intricate interactions leads to immune dysregulation, which is implicated in conditions ranging from cancer to neurological diseases. One form of immune dysregulation is when the immune system starts to attack healthy cells, a phenomenon referred to as autoimmunity. The biochemical pathways underpinning autoimmunity remain poorly understood, making the resulting medical conditions particularly challenging to diagnose and treat. This project aims to unpick the GBP-glycan interactions which underpin these complicated but fascinating diseases, with a view to improving patient outcomes.<br /> <br /> This project will apply a range of chemical biology and biophysical techniques to better understand autoimmune protein-glycan interactions. Particular focus will be on developing the use of biological mass spectrometry to directly measure and characterise these interactions. The student will apply these workflows to a range of biological systems, including purified proteins, cellular models, and human biofluids, to study GBP-glycan interactions across different medically relevant contexts. As such, the student will benefit from training across a variety of techniques and areas, with the project having scope for scientific expansion in line with their own research interests. <br /> <br /> The ideal candidate for this role has a strong interest in biological chemistry and mass spectrometry. Typical experience would be an MChem degree or equivalent in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related scientific subject (or comparable experience). Effective written and verbal communication skills, good time-management and the ability to work in a collaborative environment are essential.

<p style="margin-bottom:11px">Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>EPSRC DTP Engineering & Physical Sciences</strong></em>, in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Improved understanding of autoimmune diseases using mass spectrometry</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry/staff/15436/dr-hannah-britt">Dr Hannah Britt</a> as your proposed supervisor. <em><strong>Please state clearly in the Finance section that you are applying for EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2025/26: Chemistry.</strong></em></p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px">Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px"><strong>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 31 January 2025:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p style="margin-bottom:11px">A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award providing full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£19,237 in academic session 2024/25) for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided.</p> <p>This opportunity is open to UK applicants only.  All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p style="margin-bottom:11px">For further information about your application, please contact Doctoral College Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk">maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For informal enquiries about the project, please contact Dr Hannah Britt by email to <a href="mailto:h.m.britt@leeds.ac.uk">h.m.britt@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>